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Saturday, November 2, 2019 FOOTBALL Rabia I 5, 1441 AH Evergreen Aguero GULF TIMES holds key to City’s title defence SPORT Page 4

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPOTLIGHT Kolisi in search of a pot of gold for the England facing Rainbow Nation

Reuters ma, the starting 15 will feature Cape Town seven non-white players. “What was most important was how Nelson Mandela used daunting task in outh Africa’s fi rst black Chester as a pin-up boy and in rugby captain Siya Kolisi doing so used rugby to unite the may have made an even nation,” Stransky says. more positive impact on “We went through a period of unityS in the country than the around 18 months where sport iconic gesture of Nelson Man- gave us great belief and hope by dela donning a Springboks jer- bringing people together. We sey for the 1995 World Cup fi - not only won the World Cup, but fi nal against Boks nal, former fl yhalf Joel Stransky also the Africa Cup of Nations in says. 1996. We crossed many borders Stransky put over the deci- and came through that period of England, whose starting XV is unchanged, appear to have the more balanced side sive drop-goal as South Africa uncertainty in good shape. beat New Zealand to win the “SA Rugby has done, over the Webb Ellis Cup 24 years ago, and years, an enormous amount. I watched from the podium as a think what they are not good at beaming President Mandela tri- is waving a banner and telling umphantly passed the gold tro- everybody about them,” he adds. phy to captain Francois Pienaar. “If you go watch youth club It was a hugely symbolic mo- rugby, or schools rugby, it is very ment that off ered redemption much dominated by kids from for rugby, which until then had all backgrounds.” been seen as the preserve of Kolisi’s journey, rising out South Africa’s white minority of poverty in the crime-ridden and a symbol of the apartheid Zwide township near Port Eliza- system. beth to the brink of lifting the In a tumultuous period of un- World Cup, is a story that all in certainty in the country, where the ‘Rainbow Nation’ have ral- ordinary citizens fretted over lied behind. the future, Mandela’s wearing of Prop Tendai Mtawarira says the Springboks jersey sent out a the team recognise the signifi - clear reconciliatory signal. cance of the moment and also But almost a quarter of a cen- what a win yesterday would tury later the symbolism of a mean to the country. black man leading out the team “What Siya has achieved has in today’s fi nal against England been remarkable. For a young kid off ers even more positives for to rise above his circumstances a society dealing with rampant and become Springbok captain, crime, unemployment, corrup- and lead the way he has, it’s been tion and economic hardships. inspirational to all South Afri- “If Siya Kolisi can lift the tro- cans — from all walks of life,” he phy it will be massive, but just said in Japan this week. making the fi nal has already giv- Coach Rassie Erasmus also en us tremendous hope,” Stran- knows there is a lot more at stake sky told Reuters in an interview. on Saturday than a trophy. “There has been a great sense “Rugby is one of the things of achievement already and that that, for a few minutes and is on the back of our fi rst black sometimes a few hours, days and captain providing the inspira- months, if we win people seem England players attend tion.” to forget about their disagree- the captain’s run training The victorious 1995 squad had ments,” he said. session at the Fuchu just one black player in Chester “We are trying to win for Asahi Football Park near Williams, the iconic winger who South Africa, and not just for Tokyo yesterday. passed away following a heart the supporters, but because our attack on Sept. 6. country needs a lot of things and Today, when South Africa face we want to help fi x that.” England in the fi nal in Yokoha-

AFP from injury, the only change to the side Tokyo that beat the Welsh, adds variety to their game. In this file photo taken on But the pack, backed up by the kick- October 27, 2019 South ngland face the daunting task ing of half-backs Faf de Klerk and Handre Africa’s captain Siya Kolisi of trying to match or even im- Pollard, will look to create pressure that celebrates winning the prove upon their stunning win leads to penalty opportunities for goal- semi-final match against over New Zealand when they face kicker Pollard, as happened against Wales at the International SouthE Africa in the World Cup fi nal. Wales. Stadium Yokohama in Eddie Jones’s men will head into to- No team has won a World Cup after Yokohama. Only one black day’s showpiece in Yokohama as favour- losing a pool match, as the Springboks player was wearing the ites after a superb 19-7 semi-fi nal win did in their tournament opener against Springbok jersey during the ended the All Blacks’ bid for a third suc- New Zealand. Rugby World Cup in 1995. cessive world title. But South Africa, bidding to be Today, for the World Cup But South Africa are probably one of crowned champions for a third time, final, there will be six of the few sides capable of repelling Eng- have yet to lose a World Cup fi nal with them on the pitch for the land in their current form, even if there the Springboks beating the All Blacks on kickoff . was nothing pretty about the Springboks’ home soil in the climax of the 1995 edi- grinding 16-13 semi-fi nal win over Wales. tion. England, whose starting XV is un- South Africa fi nished third at the last changed, appear to have the more bal- World Cup after suff ering a pool-stage anced side. shock defeat by a Japan side coached by A sound scrum and and lineout fea- Jones — the biggest upset in the tourna- turing the athletic Courtney Lawes and ment’s history. Maro Itoje is supported by a back row South African players train ahead of today’s final against England. Their form then dipped alarmingly, where number eight Billy Vunipola is however, with the Springboks losing alongside “kamikaze kid” fl ankers Sam That they are now so close to realising powers in successive weeks following a eight of 12 Tests in 2016. Underhill and Tom Curry, who have been that ambition is a testament to the Aus- 40-16 quarter-fi nal victory over Aus- But coach Rassie Erasmus has over- superb at the breakdown in Japan. tralian, who was in charge of his native tralia. seen a dramatic improvement since tak- Meanwhile dual playmakers George Wallabies when they lost the 2003 World “I wanted to develop a power style as ing charge two years ago, with a multi- Ford and captain Owen Farrell will look Cup fi nal thanks to England great Jonny the England have tough, big players,” said racial side captained by Siya Kolisi — the to dictate terms and unleash a backline Wilkinson’s drop goal in the closing sec- Jones, who promised his side would “play Springboks’ fi rst black skipper — having where talented fullback Elliot Daly and onds of extra-time. with no fear”. suff ered just one defeat in 11 Tests this wings Jonny May and Anthony Watson He was also a consultant to the Spring- “It suited us to play a power style of year. provide a cutting edge. boks side that beat England in the 2007 rugby and we will be tested on Saturday “We may not be favourites but these From the moment Eddie Jones took fi nal. as we are playing against the other most players will leave nothing in the tank,” over as England coach following the Victory today would not only see Eng- powerful team in the world.” said Erasmus. “We know how the wins in team’s woeful fi rst-round exit on home land lifting the Webb Ellis Cup for a sec- For all their immense strength, which 1995 and 2007 lifted the country — even soil at the 2015 World Cup, he has insisted ond time, it would mean they had com- includes a ‘bomb squad’ of six forwards if it was momentarily. the aim was to be crowned champions in pleted the unprecedented feat of beating on the bench, South Africa do not lack fi - “We want to give South Africa that ex- Japan. the three southern hemisphere rugby nesse. The return of wing Cheslin Kolbe perience once again.” Gulf Times 2 Saturday, November 2, 2019 SPORT

RUGBY SPOTLIGHT Hamilton is hit by pioneering NZ take third spirit as Formula 1 charts new course

Reuters fi ve in Texas, and he has every Austin intention of adding to the tally place with six-try after winning in Mexico last weekend. ack in the heart of Texas If Hamilton fi nishes eighth and a race track carved tomorrow then the title is won out of the scrubland, regardless but he will not need to BLewis Hamilton was hit score any points at all to contin- by the pioneering spirit yester- ue as champion if team mate and day and declared that he wanted sole rival Valtteri Bottas does not win over Wales to be the man to lead Mercedes win. into uncharted territory. Austin is a favourite track for The All Blacks threatened from the outset and scored a fifth-minute try from Moody Earlier, on a chilly day in the the 34-year-old and he will also Texas capital, Formula One pre- be fancied to round up his Texan sented a dramatic overhaul of win tally to six on Sunday al- the sport by unveiling the car of though he is taking nothing for the future along with regulations granted. aimed at producing closer and “There’s still three races and cheaper competition from 2021. anything can happen so nothing While other drivers stared is a given,” said Hamilton. “It is cautiously out into the unknown, a good hunting ground in general Hamilton, who can clinch a sixth so I am going to be pushing very world driver’s crown at the US hard this weekend.” Grand Prix on Sunday, sounded While winning driver’s and like he was ready to saddle up constructors’ titles have become and get to work. old hat for Hamilton and Mer- “I always love a challenge,” cedes. the status quo is expected Hamilton said. “This team has to be turned on its head when the shown it is in the best position to new regulations come on line. react to changes. It will be uncharted territory “The team is approaching it in for drivers and teams, who will be an exciting way as a challenge. It operating under a budget cap of is going to be an interesting time. $175mn, about half the amount “Sometime next year my that some of the top outfi ts such mindset will be to switch into as Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull 2021 and wanting to be the pio- spend at present. neer in that era.” “When there is a challenge Of more immediate concern, such as a whole new massive Hamilton is focused on becom- change in the regulations that is ing only the second six-times a huge challenge for me to use my Formula One world champion skills to help steer the team in the and may not need to score even right direction,” said Hamilton. a point in Austin to get the job “I don’t particularly see myself done. going somewhere else. The Briton is the most suc- “I love being part of Mercedes. cessful driver in US Grand Prix I love being part of the brand. I history, his six wins including love being part of the history.”

New Zealand players pose for a photo with their medals after beating Wales in the third-place playoff yesterday.

Reuters to coach Warren Gatland, ran nity to bury the demons of their side pass from scrumhalf Aaron after a long pass from his scrum- Tokyo the ball at every opportunity semi-fi nal losses. Smith before Wales had their half, to give the All Blacks a 28- to score tries through fullback It was also still a test between best period of the match. Gat- 10 halftime lead. Crotty crossed Hallam Amos and Josh Adams traditional rivals, with the All land’s side abandoned the dour after another Williams offl oad he All Blacks bid fare- — a Welsh record seventh of the Blacks boasting a winning streak game they had played against two minutes into the second well to coach Steve tournament for the winger. against Wales that stretches South Africa last week and were half while Smith added what he Hansen and captain South Africa, who beat Wales back to 1953. Read and fellow prepared to spread the ball wide, thought was a third try, before TKieran Read with a 40- in the other semi-fi nal last veterans Crotty, Smith and Son- with fullback Hallam Amos referee Wayne Barnes called it 17 victory over Wales at Tokyo weekend, face off against Eng- ny Bill Williams, who were all ghosting on to a long pass after back for a knock-on earlier in Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain driving the Mercedes AMG Petronas Stadium yesterday, claiming land in the fi nal at Yokohama playing their fi nal games for the 15 phases to give Wales their fi rst the buildup. Wales then built F1 Team Mercedes W10 during practice for the F1 Grand Prix of USA the one World Cup prize that International Stadium today. “It All Blacks, were superb as New try. back into the game and Adams at the Circuit of The Americas in Austin, Texas, yesterday. no team sets out to win — third was just important we came back Zealand built a 35-10 lead early “Our boys never gave up and burrowed over after another place. and honoured the jersey and the in the second half. tried to play some good rugby sustained and controlled period Winger Ben Smith grabbed a fans and put that one last week The All Blacks threatened but probably a game too far for of play to eclipse Shane Wil- MOTORCYCLING brace and Joe Moody, Beauden behind us,” said Hansen. from the outset and scored a us,” said Gatland. “I’ve loved my liams’s six-try haul at the 2007 Barrett, Ryan Crotty and Richie “We’ve played good footy fi fth-minute try from prop time in Wales but that era’s over tournament. Mo’unga also crossed as New throughout, but one bad game Moody, an example of how they now and I’m looking forward to “We tried to play a bit but Zealand rebounded from their and you’re out. That’s knockout can play when their ball han- the next challenge.” the score probably didn’t refl ect Quartararo fastest semi-fi nal loss to England and footy. Really proud of the boys.” dling and running into space Rhys Patchell added a penalty that,” said Wales captain Alun extended their 66-year win- While pundits and fans had clicks. to reduce the gap to 14-10 before Wyn Jones. “I think most of the ning streak over Wales to 31 questioned the relevance of a Fullback Barrett extended the Ben Smith crossed twice, fi rst by squad earned their fi rst caps un- in practice for Tests. Both teams came to play third-placed playoff , both sides lead to 14-0 less than eight min- fending off Adams and then rac- der (Gatland), his legacy is a lot and Wales, also saying farewell said the game was an opportu- utes later when he took an in- ing away outside the defenders bigger than one game.” Malaysian MotoGP BOTTOMLINE Read bows out in typical fashion AFP tom of the opening ruck, it was Read’s 11 years an Tokyo clear this was business as usual international have also for Read, whose 52 Tests as New seen him emerge as one Zealand captain are second only of the fi nest ball-handling ieran Read did not want to that of former teammate back-row forwards of his a World Cup third- Richie McCaw’s 110. generation place play-off to be his “Immensely proud,” Read told Klast Test but you would broadcasters immediately after game. never have known it from the the match. Read has always been the ul- way the New Zealand captain “You see a crowd like this. Just timate team man and that qual- played during the All Blacks’ awesome to pull on the jersey ity was in evidence again as he AFP second fastest, 0.534 behind the 40-17 win over Wales in Tokyo again. The guys really appreciate resisted pleas from his friends Sepang, Malaysia Frenchman. yesterday. what it means to be an All Black,” to kick a drop goal in the style of Ducati’s Andrea Dovizioso, The number eight had hoped he added after a victory that saw another great All Blacks back- this year’s runner-up in the his 127th international, his fi nal him end his Test career with an row, Zinzan Brooke. abio Quartararo world standings and the winner match before he quits Tests and astonishing win rate of more “It’s one thing my mates give clocked the fastest prac- at Sepang in 2016 and 17, was continues his club career in Ja- than 84%. me stick about a lot — that I’ve tice time and set a new third fastest, 0.630 off the pace. pan, would have seen him lead- Read’s 11 years an internation- never got a dropped goal,” a lap record at Sepang Already-crowned world ing New Zealand to a third suc- al have also seen him emerge as smiling Read said ahead of yes- yesterdayF ahead of the Malay- champion Marc Marquez, aim- cessive World Cup title. one of the fi nest ball-handling terday’s match. sian MotoGP, a boost for the ing for his second consecutive Last week’s stunning 19-7 back-row forwards of his gen- “I just don’t see it happening, French rookie after he crashed victory in Malaysia on Sunday semi-fi nal loss to England in eration. unfortunately. I’ll just do my job, out in Australia. and his 12th of the season, only Yokohama, however, put paid to That passing skill was evi- what I’ve done all my career.” The 20-year-old Petronas managed to clock the sixth fast- that ambition. dent in the way he found Bro- There may have been no drop Yamaha rider, whose race at est lap. The Spaniard could cap Instead the 34-year-old Read, die Retallick before the lock’s goals but there was no deny- Phillip Island last week ended at a stellar season in Malaysia, a double world champion, found neat back-fl ick sent in prop Joe ing Read’s commitment and few turn two when he collided with the year’s penultimate race, by himself leading his country in a Moody for the fi rst try of the would disagree with his words Danilo Petrucci, powered to a sealing the team championship match often labelled as the fi x- match at Tokyo Stadium. after the fi nal whistle. quickest lap of 1min 58.576sec for Repsol Honda, to add to the ture no one wants to play in but Read was one of several All “This jersey does mean a lot,” in the afternoon session. riders’ and constructors’ acco- which, in this case, preserved Blacks bidding farewell to in- he said. “It’s been part of my life It was the second time he had lades. New Zealand’s 66-year unbeat- ternational rugby. But while the for a long time. broken the lap record — previ- He also needs to score just en run against Wales. likes of centre Sonny Bill Wil- “For me, it dictates that you ously held by Dani Pedrosa — in nine points in Malaysia — a sev- And yet from his passionate liams were replaced before the try to leave it in a better place the space of a day, after smash- enth-placed fi nish or above — display in the traditional pre- end, Read played on to the fi nish, than you found it, so that’s my ing it in the morning session. to top three-time world cham- match haka, or the fact he was New Zealand’s Kieran Read poses with his children after the match not sparing himself in one of the aim for my entire career and Petronas Yamaha teammate pion Jorge Lorenzo’s highest the last man up from the bot- against Wales yesterday. most demanding positions in the hopefully I’ve done that.” Franco Morbidelli of Italy was ever tally of 383 across 18 races. Gulf Times Saturday, November 2, 2019 3 FOOTBALL

QNB STARS LEAGUE FOCUS Dortmund hope for Sparks set to fl y as Bundesliga title boost AFP Berlin

orussia Dortmund at- tacking midfi elder Julian Duhail, Sadd to clash Brandt says he hopes his side’s 2-1 midweek winB over Borussia Moencheng- Duhail are a point behind leaders Al Rayyan, but will go back top if they win today ladbach in the German Cup will mark a turning point in the sea- By Sports Reporter son. While some had the black Doha and yellows as favourite to win the Bundesliga after an aggres- sive off -season recruitment ef- l Duhail will host Al Sadd in a fort, Dortmund sit in fi fth place marquee QNB Stars League after nine rounds, with four clash today, with much at stake wins, four draws and a loss. for the Qatar’s top two clubs. New recruit Brandt scored two TheA encounter between the league’s goals in three minutes in the sec- most recent champions is sure to have ond half of the German Cup tie, all ingredients of a thriller, with both a welcome return to form for a teams possessing array of star players in player who had scored only once their ranks and are once against strong in 12 appearances for Dortmund title contenders. prior to Wednesday night. With Duhail are a point behind leaders Al pressure mounting on coach Lu- Rayyan, who beat Al Sailiya on Thurs- cien Favre, and a mounting in- day but will go back to top if they can jury list, Brandt said the win was beat their perennial rivals today. De- just the tonic Dortmund needed. fending champions Sadd are third but “These games, these diffi cult have also played two matches less, with games, give you a lot of confi - their fi xtures against Al Arabi and Al dence,” said Brandt. “We are a Khor deferred due to The Wolves’ AFC young team, and we defi nitely Champions League engagements. have a lot to learn. We don’t do The two sides have met three times everything right, but if you can so far this season – twice in the AFC manage to win despite these dif- Champions League and once in the sea- fi culties, it’s like a balm for the son-opening Sheikh Jassim Cup – with soul. And if you win, the pres- Sadd emerging as winners twice while sure will of course subside.” the other game was drawn. Dortmund welcome fourth- Despite the success over Duhai, Al placed Wolfsburg to Signal Idu- Sadd head coach Xavi Hernandez de- na Park today afternoon ahead scribed Duhail match as ‘diffi cult” and of next week’s Der Klassiker ‘complicated.’ Speaking at the pre- showdown away against rivals match press conference yesterday, Xavi Bayern Munich. Dutch winger said: “We know that tomorrow’s game Javairo Dilrosun will be crucial will be diffi cult and complicated. We for Hertha as they make the trip were better than them in the Champi- to neighbours Union Berlin for ons League and we defeated them in the the fi rst ever top-fl ight derby Sheikh Jassim Cup as well. But Satur- between the two teams from the day’s game will be for three points, and German capital. in a diff erent competition. We know how strong Duhail are and they will be FIXTURES looking to make an impact. They are (all times 1330 GMT missing some players but they are still a Al Duhail players train on the eve of their QNB Stars League match against Al Sadd at the Abdullah bin Khalifa stadium. unless stated) Today: strong team,” he said. Bayer Leverkusen v Borussia Sadd are out of the AFC Champions Duhail, meanwhile, will seek to repeat be a highly enjoyable game. Certainly, victory. This game assumes greater sig- just one victory to their credit, while Moenchengladbach, Werder League, with their focus fi rmly en- their performance in last season’s Amir it will be diffi cult for Al Duhail and Al nifi cance as Al Sadd are our direct op- they drew two matches and lost four. Al trenched on the league. “We wanted to Cup fi nal, where beat Al Sadd soundly. Sadd. We are facing very strong oppo- ponents for the title,” added Faria. Khor, however, have one advantage as Bremen v Freiburg, Eintracht reach the Champions League fi nal but But with injuries sidelining key players nents who have a large number of play- In an early kick-off today, Al Khor they have played one game less against Frankfurt v Bayern Munich, RB this is how football is. Our focus now like Assem Madibo and Louis Martin, it ers of the Qatar senior national team,” welcome Al Gharafa. The hosts have reigning champions Al Sadd. Leipzig v Mainz, Borussia Dort- is on the league. After two games, there will be a diffi cult task. Coach Rui Faria, the Portuguese manager said. bagged only fi ve points so far, so they Slavisa Jokanovic-coached Al Ghara- mund v Wolfsburg, Union Berlin will be more strength in the team. We however, said his team was ready to take “There is no doubt that Duhail are a badly need a string of positive results to fa are coming from a 1-2 loss to Al Duhail v Hertha Berlin (1630) will (also) have a lot of work to do at the on the reigning champions. “We are special team with outstanding players. move away from the danger zone. in their previous match. The Cheetahs Tomorrow: Fortuna Club World Cup, in which we want to ready to face Al Sadd. Everyone is wait- Our target is to get three points. We are Omar Najhi’s men, who were held have 14 points and a victory is crucial Duesseldorf v Cologne, give our best,” Xavi said. ing for this clash which, we hope, will playing every match with one target - goalless by Al Wakrah last week, have for them to be among the top four. Augsburg v Schalke (1600)

SPOTLIGHT LA LIGA Arabi fi ght back to salvage a point against Wakrah Bale back in the fold By Sports Reporter Doha but not fi t to face Betis

AFP 6-0 under Zidane in May 2018 l Arabi twice came from behind Madrid and there have also been resilient and snatched a last-minute away victories at Galatasaray and equaliser to fi nish 2-2 in a fre- Sevilla this term, not to mention netic fi nale against Al Wakrah inedine Zidane said goal fl urries against Granada and inA yesterday’s QNB Stars League match. yesterday Gareth Bale has Levante. Mohamed Salah El Neel (68th minute) resumed light training But both Granada and Levante and Birkir Bjarnason (90+6) were on the but will not be available almost pulled off comebacks scoresheet for Al Arabi, with Al Wakrah Zfor Real Madrid’s La Liga game while miserable defeats away having scored through Mohammed Waad at home to Real Betis. Madrid at promoted Mallorca and Paris Al Bayati in the 40th minute and Mo- can register their third consecu- Saint-Germain exposed a blunt- hamed Benyettou (90th-minute penalty) tive victory by beating struggling ness up front and fragility at the at the Al Arabi Stadium. Betis today but Bale remains on back that felt all-too familiar. Both teams came into the match short the sidelines, as he continues his After 10 games, the juncture of confi dence on the back of recent costly recovery from a calf problem. when teams can supposedly be results and this refl ected in the hesitant Bale caused a stir this week judged, the picture is still not early exchanges as they looked to ease by taking the day off on Mon- clear, yet there are signs, in Zi- their way in. day to meet his agent in Lon- dane’s selection at least, that his Of the two sides, it was Al Arabi who don, prompting reports in Spain second tenure is taking shape. had the best of the play. However, they he was discussing a move away Barcelona, who have won were unable to break the deadlock. They from the Santiago Bernabeu in seven games on the bounce, face had multiple chances, fi rstly a cross January. Levante away. Lionel Messi’s which evaded everybody in the penalty But Zidane has insisted Bale mesmeric performance against area and hit the post, before a Bjarnason had permission to be absent from Real Valladolid served as an an- free-kick was saved, and El Neel’s far- the club and he is now back in nouncement that he is fi t and fi r- post header did not trouble the keeper training. ing again, meaning Barca’s title too much. The Welshman was not with rivals may no longer be aff orded Wakrah started to counter and their the rest of the squad for yes- so much room for slip-ups. “We presence in the opposition half became terday’s early session but did have to look forward,” said coach more incisive as the game grew. They some running alone with a team Ernesto Valverde on Tuesday. were rewarded for their eff orts when Al physio. “He is here with us, he is “What happens is you see Messi Bayati received the ball near the halfway training and working hard,” said playing like that and it seems that line, advanced forward and, lacking other Zidane in a press conference. it’s easy, but it’s not easy at all.” options, launched a fantastic left-footed “He is back from his trip and he Diego Simeone insists Atletico drive from distance that fl ew past Gre- is getting better. He is not availa- Madrid are a work in progress gory Gomis in goal and into the far corner ble yet but he is recovering bit by but their draw away at Alaves of the goal. bit. It seems we should bring him in midweek leaves them play- They came close to a second before the out here to speak to you because I ing catch-up, with a tough trip half was out when Benyettou struck an- don’t know anything more.” to Sevilla today. Granada and other shot from distance but, this time, it Real Madrid sit second in La Real Sociedad, the league’s two went the wrong side of the post. Liga, a point behind Barcelona surprise high-fl iers, meet at Los The second half started much like the and one ahead of Atletico Madrid Carmenes tomorrow. fi rst as Al Wakrah did their best to protect and surprise high-fl iers Gra- an important lead. Their defensive disci- nada, both of whom have played FIXTURES (TIMES GMT) pline fi nally came undone when Pierre- a game more. James Rodriguez Today: Espanyol v Valencia Michelle Lasogga’s through ball found its returned to Madrid yesterday (1200), Levante v Barcelona way to El Neel, who outmuscled Ali Ka- from Colombia after the birth (1500), Sevilla v Atletico Madrid rami on the edge of the area before sliding Al Arabi’s Birkir Bjarnason (left) and Al Wakrah’s Khalid Muneer Mazeed vie for the ball during the QNB Stars League match at the of his second child, but he is (1730), Real Madrid v Real Betis the ball past goalkeeper Saoud al-Khater Al Arabi stadium yesterday. PICTURE: Shemeer Rasheed not expected to be involved this (2000) to level the scores. weekend. Centre-back Nacho is At this point, Al Arabi were very much Benyettou stepped up to fi re home the earn his side a well-deserved point. stood on fi ve points. struggling with a knee problem Tomorrow: Real Valladolid in the ascendency and nearly grabbed the penalty on the stroke of 90 minutes. In another match, Al Ahli scored a cru- Umm Salal, playing their fi rst match and Marco Asensio is a long- v Mallorca (1100), Villarreal v lead when Hamdi Harbaoui turned on the There was still time for drama though cial 1-0 victory over Umm Salal at home. under Tunisian Ahmed Labiadh who re- term absentee with a cruciate Athletic Bilbao (1300), Osasuna volley, but could not keep his shot down. as six minutes into injury time, former Abel Mathias scored the winning goal placed Spaniard Raul Caneda, crashed to ligament injury. v Alaves (1500), Celta Vigo v Al Wakrah seemed to have sealed the Aston Villa player Bjarnason reacted in the eighth minute. Al Ahli, with their their sixth defeat. Abel put The Brigadiers Real’s win over Leganes last Getafe (1730), Leganes v Eibar points when Hossam Kamal upended quickest to Yousef’s corner to smash fourth victory, moved to 13 points, while ahead by heading in a cross by Abdelrah- week was their most emphatic in (1730), Granada v Real Sociedad Ismail Mahmoud in the penalty area and home an equaliser from close range and Umm Salal’s woes compounded as they man Mohamed from the right. the league since they beat Celta (2000) Gulf Times 4 Saturday, November 2, 2019 FOOTBALL

PREMIER LEAGUE Arsenal captain Xhaka to miss Wolves clash amid fan feud London: Unai Emery con- season, revealed on Thursday firmed yesterday that Granit he reached boiling point fol- Xhaka will miss Arsenal’s home lowing a series of sick taunts match against Wolverhampton toward him and his family via Evergreen Aguero Wanderers this weekend as social media. With Wolves visit- the Swiss midfielder’s fan feud ing the Emirates this weekend, rumbles on. Xhaka appeared it is possible Xhaka would have to swear at Arsenal supporters endured more abuse after the after his second half substitu- statement off ered only a faint tion prompted sarcastic cheers apology for his actions. and booing during Sunday’s Xhaka was already a disliked 2-2 home draw with Crystal figure among many Arsenal holds key to Man Palace, with the 27-year-old fans after lacklustre displays cupping his ears, waving his since his 2016 arrival from arms angrily and ripping off his Borussia Moenchengladbach. shirt before storming down the His failure to block the cross tunnel. that led to Palace’s equalising Xhaka has faced calls to goal on Sunday was the final be stripped of the Arsenal straw for some fans as they captaincy and he was left out vented their frustrations. City’s title defence of Wednesday’s League Cup de- A decision over the captain- feat at Liverpool after Gunners cy remains to be announced, boss Emery admitted his reac- although Xhaka is said to retain Liverpool are six points clear and remain a daunting obstacle for Aguero and City tion was wrong. “He said sorry, the backing of Arsenal’s play- he gave the apologies to the ers, who voted him as skipper AFP supporters, to everybody and in pre-season. It is believed Ar- London now the focus is for tomorrow’s senal have off ered counselling match,” Emery told reporters to Xhaka given his fragile state ahead of today’s clash at the of mind and, asked if he would ergio Aguero holds the key to Emirates Stadium. retain the armband, Emery kept Manchester City’s bid to overhaul “It is not in my mind that he his cards close to his chest. Premier League leaders Liverpool is going play tomorrow. I am “We were waiting for his as the Argentine striker reaps the thinking tomorrow he is not go- statement on Monday ahead of rewardsS of the “best decision of his life”. ing to play because I think now the last press conference here When Aguero walks onto the Etihad Sta- we need also to be focused on Tuesday,” he said. “The next dium pitch ahead of today’s clash with only 100 per cent on the match. step is tomorrow’s match. He Southampton, he will feel more at one Now we are going to train but is training normally with the with his surroundings than he would at the moment, he’s not in my team, he didn’t play at Liver- ever have imagined when he arrived eight mind.” pool and he is continuing and years ago. Xhaka, who was also booed above all has remained focused Back then, Aguero was a talented but against Aston Villa earlier this on tomorrow.” not yet fully rounded player hoping to thrive in England after a promising start to his European career with Atletico Ma- drid. The intervening years have been a SPOTLIGHT dream come true for Aguero, who is now City’s record goal-scorer and has amassed four Premier League titles, one FA Cup and four League Cups while helping the Lampard dispels club’s become top dogs in Manchester after decades of dominance from United. Aguero marked his 350th appearance Rudiger claims that with two goals against Southampton in the League Cup fourth round win on Tuesday, giving him 12 for the season and he is fi t to return 243 in his City career. For all the brilliance of his City teammates Raheem Sterling AFP Fikayo Tomori both impressing and Kevin De Bruyne, it is the 31-year-old London during a seven-game winning Aguero and the guarantee of goals which streak which came to a halt with remains the key element in their bid for a their 2-1 League Cup loss to Man- third successive English title. rank Lampard yester- chester United on Wednesday. “It was hard to imagine spending so day poured cold water The pair will continue in the long with one club when I fi rst started off on Chelsea defender centre of defence for the trip to but as time went by, it became clearer to Antonio Rudiger’s re- bottom side Watford, who Lam- me that it was exactly what I wanted. And portedF claim that he is fi t to re- pard is not taking lightly despite here I am, enjoying my eighth season with turn to action ahead of the Blues’ them failing to win in their open- Manchester City,” Aguero said. trip to struggling Watford. The ing 10 matches. “We saw what “How couldn’t I feel like a Mancunian? 26-year-old German interna- they did last year, getting big re- I feel at home in this club and in this city. tional has been restricted to just sults and regularly being a very As soon as I arrived, I’ve felt like I be- one appearance under new coach strong team and making the FA longed, that made the adaptation process Manchester City’s Argentinian striker Sergio Aguero marked his 350th appearance with two goals against Southampton in the Lampard after fi rst undergoing Cup fi nal,” said Lampard. “We much more natural. I believe coming to League Cup fourth round win on Tuesday. (AFP) knee surgery and then suff ering a cannot underestimate the team Manchester City is one of the best deci- pelvic injury, but had been quot- that will be hurting because they sions I’ve taken in my life.” his place against Villa. the League Cup on Wednesday thanks ing feud with Gunners fans and the fall- ed this week as saying he was fi t haven’t won for a while and will Chasing their fi rst top-fl ight title since “I wasn’t great on the ball and not near to Marcus Rashford’s superb free-kick out continues, with Emery still deciding and “itching to play”. have every ambition to try and 1990, Liverpool are six points clear of City my own personal level of where I want to and the United striker feels confi dence is whether to strip him of the captaincy. “No, he’s not fi t. I saw the win this game, so I certainly have and remain a daunting obstacle for Ague- be. I watch the boys of a weekend and I growing in the squad. quotes, whether there was a mis- even more focus on what we need ro and company. Jurgen Klopp’s side head know what it is about here,” he said. “You “If you get a couple of wins back-to- FIXTURES (1500 GMT UNLESS STATED) communication somewhere, he’s to do.” to Aston Villa with nine wins from their have got to be at a really high physical back early on in the season it can change Today: Arsenal v Wolves, Aston Villa v not fi t,” said Lampard. “He’s go- Christian Pulisic scored a hat- 10 league games this season, a blistering level to go and put in a performance like the direction the season is going,” Rash- Liverpool, Bournemouth v Manchester Utd ing to see a consultant on Mon- trick for Chelsea last week in the streak that is fuelled by the intense com- that. Fab (Fabinho) did really well at the ford said. “When you’re winning back- (1230 GMT), Brighton v Norwich, Man- day because he has an ongoing 4-2 win at Burnley, but the young petition for places and the high standards weekend so I need to keep pushing myself to-back games, the team’s confi dence chester City v Southampton, Sheff ield Utd issue in his pelvic area which is American is not guaranteed to set by the European champions. and maybe I will get a chance.” levels go up.” v Burnley, Watford v Chelsea (1730 GMT), bothering him so I was a bit sur- start against Watford. Michy Evidence of that desire was provided by Elsewhere, Manchester United, en- Arsenal boss Unai Emery is under pres- West Ham v Newcastle prised by the quotes. It’s a mis- Batshuayi scored a superb goal Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, who scored a joying a mini-revival after their poor sure to deliver a win against Wolves af- communication, he’s not there.” against United and lampard also superb goal in the midweek League Cup start, can make it four successive away ter his side blew leads against Liverpool Tomorrow: Crystal Palace v Leicester Rudiger faces a battle to regain has youngster Callum Hudson- win over Arsenal but then admitted he wins when they visit Bournemouth. Ole and Crystal Palace. The Palace match (1400 GMT), Everton v Tottenham (1630 his fi rst team place once he does Odoi pushing for a regular start- hadn’t done enough to deserve to retain Gunnar Solskjaer’s side beat Chelsea in was marred by Granit Xhaka’s astonish- GMT) recover, with Kurt Zouma and ing place.

FOCUS SERIE A Klopp searches for solution to Inter get another chance to overtake Juve Liverpool’s League Cup dilemma AFP Milan Inter Milan manager Antonio AFP Conte has complained that London his squad is being asked to t is early days in Inter Milan’s do too much. (Reuters) pursuit of perennial Serie A urgen Klopp admits Liverpool are yet to pacesetters Juventus, but al- resolve their League Cup dilemma after ready the chasers are worry- holding talks over the fi xture clash between Iing about fl agging. Inter travel to the quarter-fi nal against Aston Villa and Bologna today in the 11th round theJ Club World Cup. Klopp’s side will be in Qatar and can briefl y overhaul Juventus for the Club World Cup when their League Cup tie ahead of the Turin derby later in at Villa is scheduled to be played in December. the day. Klopp had threatened to pull Liverpool out of Third-place Atalanta face in- the League Cup if the English Football League form Cagliari tomorrow. Roma, didn’t accommodate them by moving the last in fourth, open the weekend eight match. He has considered fi elding two sep- against Napoli. The top two arate sides to solve the fi xture congestion, but it fl ip-fl opped in midweek. Inter remains likely the Villa game will be pushed back won 2-1 at Brescia on Tuesday. until early January. Juventus, playing with 10 men, “We discussed it. We have to as there is not regained a one-point lead when too much time to make that decision. But no fi - Cristiano Ronaldo converted a nal decision yet,” Klopp said. “If we did play while 90th-minute penalty at home to or two midfi elders in the winter front of our fans,” the Dutchman The last thing the former Na- in Qatar it would be two diff erent teams but we Genoa on Wednesday. transfer period. “We are pushing said. poli, Inter and Watford manager cannot leave any players at home for the Carabao After the victory at Brescia, the engine to the max,” he said. Meanwhile Juventus’s week- needs is Torino’s habitual defeat Cup. We have two games there (in Qatar) in a very Inter manager Antonio Conte, Most of his players had got the end opponents are in some disar- in the Derby della Mole. Torino busy period. It is not that we can go there with 11 Cup: nice competition, what a wonderful game always a glass-half-empty type, message. “We’re playing every ray. Walter Mazzarri, the Torino have only beaten Juventus once players and say these 11 guys play two games in we had on Wednesday. But then there is still in complained that his squad is be- three days and it isn’t easy. There manager, received the dreaded in 28 league meetings since 1995. Qatar and the other guys play back home against January, after a very busy schedule in December, ing asked to do too much. “It be- is slight fatigue,” said Argentine vote of confi dence ahead of the In that time, Juve, despite being Aston Villa. It doesn’t work like that. We will there is two (legged) semi-fi nals. “It is an easy de- comes diffi cult to talk about the striker Lautaro Martinez, who Turin derby. Torino lost 4-0 at briefl y relegated, have won 12 make a decision but not yet.” cision for me to say, ‘OK, if you keep that compe- game because we’ve now played scored Inter’s opening goal in Lazio on Wednesday, although Scudetti and a European title. Klopp believes the League Cup needs an over- tition why have two (legged) semi-fi nals?’ our fourth match in nine days Tuesday, his fi fth of the season. all the goals came after defender Torino have won a second divi- haul if it is to remain in the calendar given the al- “That is the diff erence to other countries. We with the same players,” he said. There was one dissenting Nicolas Nkoulou received a sec- sion title. ready hectic demands on the top Premier League are the only country where no-one wants to touch “We now have to recover be- voice. “It’s nice to play every few ond yellow card after 21 minutes. clubs. “It is obvious it is too much. Absolutely ob- it. The FA wants to touch the League Cup, the cause we’re only halfway there, days,” said Dutch defender Mat- Torino president Urbano Cairo FIXTURES (ALL TIMES GMT) vious. Everyone involved in the game will tell you Football League wants to touch the FA Cup but I haven’t seen any other side thijs de Ligt. “We footballers was not happy. “We have a derby Today: Roma v Napoli (1400), Bo- that. Let’s have a look how they deal with it,” he no-one wants to talk about it.” having to play seven matches in live to play games. It’s tiring but ahead of us but above all a long logna v Inter Milan (1700), Torino said. When Manchester United where involved in 20 days. Next up it’s Bologna on we’re happy.” championship ahead of us: I v Juventus (1945) But Klopp has doubts about whether the au- the 2000 World Team Championship — the fore- Saturday and then we’ve got a Bologna are anchored in mid- think it’s right today to examine thorities are ready to listen to the managers who runner of the Club World Cup — they controver- Tuesday fi xture away to Dort- table after losing 3-2 away to everyone’s conscience.” Tomorrow: Atalanta v Cagliari fear their players’ health is being put at risk by sially pulled out of the FA Cup to aid their fi xture mund.” Cagliari on Wednesday but de- He added that he had confi - (1100), Genoa v Udinese, Lecce fi xture burn-out. “If you see the schedule com- congestion. Klopp is well aware of the likely criti- Conte reportedly had meet- fender Stefano Denswil promised dence in Mazzarri. “I confi rm my v Sassuolo, Verona v Brescia (all ing up it is all OK,” he said. “Premier League: what cism that would follow if Liverpool did the same ings with Inter management Inter a tough match. “We want to faith in Mazzarri,” said Cairo.”He’s 1400), Fiorentina v Parma (1700), a competition, sensationally cool. Then Carabao in the League Cup. this week to discuss adding one play a great game against Inter in not under examination.” AC Milan v Lazio (1945) Gulf Times Saturday, November 2, 2019 5 SPORT

NBA FOCUS NBA hands Embiid, Towns two-game Leonard shines suspensions for fi ght

Reuters fans chanted “MVP!” to Embiid New York, United States as he left the court. The 76ers, who led 77-55 at the time of the scuffl e, went on to win 117-95. innesota Timber- Embiid had 19 points and fi ve vs former team in wolves forward/ rebounds in 20 minutes, and center Karl-Anthony Towns recorded 13 points and six Towns and Phila- rebounds in 23 minutes before Mdelphia 76ers center Joel Em- the ejections. biid, who were ejected during Towns will miss a road game a Wednesday night game, were today against the Washing- each suspended two games by ton Wizards and a home game the NBA on Thursday. Monday against the Milwaukee Clippers victory The punishment was in re- Bucks. sponse to the “on-court alter- Embiid will be out for the fi rst cation and for their continued two games of the 76ers’ four-game Leonard has scored 30 or more points in three of his first five games for Clippers escalation following the inci- road trip: against the Portland dent,” NBA executive vice presi- Trail Blazers today and the Phoe- dent, basketball operations Kiki nix Suns on Monday. VanDeWeghe announced. Timberwolves president of No punishment or fi ne was basketball operations Gersson issued to 76ers guard Ben Sim- Rosas issued a statement regard- mons, though the Timberwolves ing Towns’ suspension: “While maintained that he was an ag- we are disappointed with the gressor as the melee escalated. league’s decision, we understand Referee Mark Ayotte, speaking the magnitude of this unfortu- to a pool reporter, said that Sim- nate incident. The NBA is highly mons was “deemed a peacemak- competitive and last night was er” in the incident. a refl ection of that. We support With 6:42 left in the third Karl and will move forward to- quarter at Philadelphia, Embiid gether as a group.” and Towns became entangled Towns, 23, is averaging 27.3 and wrestled to the fl oor. Nu- points, 11.5 rebounds, four as- merous players and coaches then sists, 2.5 steals and 1.8 blocks joined in. through four games this season. Towns appeared to throw a Embiid, 25, is averaging 23.3 punch as the players hit the fl oor. points, 10.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists, After an extensive video re- 1.3 steals and 1.7 blocks through view by league offi cials, Embiid three games. and Towns were ejected and the Both are two-time All-Stars.

Joel Embiid (centre) of the Philadelphia 76ers fights with Karl-Anthony Towns (right) of the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA game in Philadelphia, United States, on Wednesday. (AFP)

LA Clippers’ Kawhi Leonard (left) moves in to score a basket against the San Antonio Spurs during the NBA game in Los Angeles, United States, on Thursday. (USA TODAY Sports) Darvish will not opt out of Cubs had 25 points in the second half. by knee soreness, made 8 of 13 quarter scoring by making a Agencies RESULTS contract: report Los Angeles, United States “Every young player who has a shots to become the fi rst Peli- 3-pointer and Lonzo Ball added Miami 106-97 Atlanta chance to see the work, should can other than Brandon Ingram another as the Pelicans quickly Reuters Darvish’s first season in Chi- understand you don’t get better to lead the team in scoring this stretched their four-point half- New York, United States cago was a disaster, with the awhi Leonard delivered New Orleans 122-107 Denver without the work.” season. Ingram fi nished with 25. time lead to 64-54. veteran not only struggling 38 points, Montrezl LA Clippers 103-97 San Antonio Los Angeles seized control of Frank Jackson came off the New Orleans led by as many on the mound (1-3, 4.95 ERA) Harrell chipped in 24 the contest with a 9-1 run to take bench to add 21 points, knocking as 14 points, but Grant’s short fter rebounding from but only making eight starts and the Los Angeles After so much time with the a 64-55 lead with 6:55 remaining down four 3-pointers, and Jrue jumper beat the quarter buzzer a diff icult first half of with right triceps and elbow KClippers defeated San Antonio Spurs, Leonard’s relationship in the third quarter. Holiday, returning from a two- and got the Nuggets within 86- Athe 2019 season by injuries. 103-97 on Thursday to knock with the team eventually dete- Leonard scored fi ve of his 10 game absence due to a sprained 75 after three periods. finishing strong in his final The 2019 season did not look the Spurs off their undefeated riorated. He was traded in July third-quarter points during the knee, had 19 points, fi ve re- Denver scored the fi rst fi ve two months, four-time All-Star much better for the Cubs and perch. 2018 to the Toronto Raptors in a rally, including stealing the ball off bounds and seven assists. points of the fourth quarter, but right-hander Yu Darvish has Darvish, who suff ered through Leonard, who did not dress deal that sent DeRozan to Texas. DeRozan and going in for a dunk. New Orleans, which had seen 3-pointers by Jackson and Josh reportedly chose not to opt a first half that included just for Wednesday’s game at Utah Leonard went on to lead the San Antonio got within fi ve at its previous four opponents aver- Hart completed an 8-0 run that out of his contract with Chi- two victories in 18 starts (2-4 so he could rest, also grabbed Raptors to their fi rst NBA title the end of the third quarter be- age 11 more free-throw attempts gave the Pelicans a 94-80 lead cago and he will stay with the record with 12 no-decisions) 12 rebounds for his fi rst double- last season in a six-game victory fore the Clippers scored 11 of the per game, made 25 of 32 free with 10 minutes remaining. Cubs for 2020. and a 5.01 ERA. But Darvish double this season. against the defending champion fi rst 13 points in the fourth quar- throws while the Nuggets, losing The Pelicans, who had al- MLB Insider Jon Heyman re- regained his formerly pinpoint “I have the heart of a cham- Golden State Warriors. But the ter. San Antonio clawed their their second straight game after lowed an NBA-worst 128.2 ported Thursday that Darvish, control, going 4-4 with a 2.76 pion and I just tried to stay title wasn’t enough to keep Le- way back to make it 97-93 late in starting the season with three points per game coming in, led 33, prefers to stay in Chicago ERA in his final 13 starts — al- focused,” said Leonard, who onard in Toronto. the fourth but the Clippers held victories, made 14 of 16. by as many as 22 points down instead of voiding the final lowing a mere seven walks in played seven seasons with the The Spurs were eliminated in on for the win. Michael Porter Jr., who made the stretch. Their victory left four years and $81mn remain- 81 2/3 innings in the season’s Spurs from 2011 to 2018. the fi rst round last year by the his NBA debut after missing his 0-5 Sacramento as the last win- ing on his deal. second half for a glistening Leonard has now scored 30 or Denver Nuggets. OKAFOR’S 26 LEADS entire rookie season a year ago less team in the NBA. That means Darvish will get 0.81 WHIP. more points in three of his fi rst Clippers coach Doc Rivers PELICANS OVER NUGGETS because of a knee injury, came The Pelicans shot 60% (12- his chance to build off the mo- For the 2019 season, Darvish fi ve games with the Clippers, said Leonard didn’t develop into Jahlil Okafor scored 26 points as off the bench to lead the Nuggets for-20) from the fl oor, including mentum of a dominant second finished 6-6 with a 3.98 ERA in who he signed with as a free one of the best players in the the host New Orleans Pelicans with 15 points. Jamal Murray and 45.5% (5-for-11) on 3-pointers half in Chicago, the first sus- 31 starts — tied for the second- agent during the off season. league by accident. He is one of got their fi rst victory of the sea- Jerami Grant scored 14 points to take a 32-30 lead after the fi rst tained success he experienced most season total of his DeMar DeRozan scored 29 the hardest working players on son, defeating the Denver Nug- apiece, Nikola Jokic added 13, quarter. since signing a blockbuster seven-year career spent with points and Derrick White added and off the court in the NBA. gets 122-107 on Thursday night. Malik Beasley scored 11 while New Orleans reached a season- six-year, $126mn free agent the Texas Rangers (2012-2017), 20 for the Spurs, who suff ered “From where he started from Okafor, making his second Paul Millsap and Mason Plumlee high 20 fast-break points less contract with the Cubs before Los Angeles Dodgers (2017) their fi rst loss of the young sea- to where he is at now is amaz- consecutive start with starting had 10 each. than 15 minutes into the game and the 2018 season. and Cubs (2018-2019). son dropping to 3-1. ing,” said Rivers of Leonard who center Derrick Favors sidelined Holiday started the third- took a 56-52 halftime lead.

NHL Domi’s OT goal caps Canadiens’ comeback over Knights Reuters But Vegas came back to take a 2-1 RESULTS New York, United States lead later in the period on goals by Calgary 6-5 Nashville Karlsson, who took a stretch pass (OT) from Jonathan Marchessault and beat ax Domi scored 26 sec- Kinkaid with a wrister from the right onds into overtime to cap Montreal 5-4 Las Vegas circle, and Tuch, who broke in on the a three-goal fl urry in the (OT) left wing after taking a pass off the fi nal seven minutes of boards from Nate Schmidt and fi ring a Mthe game and give the Montreal Ca- Phillip Danault and Jonathan shot fi ve-hole for his fi rst goal of the nadiens a 5-4 victory over the Vegas Drouin also scored goals for Mon- season. Golden Knights on Thursday night in treal, which won a season-high third Drouin, left alone on the right side Las Vegas. straight game. Kinkaid fi nished with of the net, tied it midway through the Domi took a pass from Jeff Petry in 31 saves as the Canadiens improved second period with his seventh goal the middle of the slot and then fi red a to 4-1-0 all-time against the Golden of the season, deking Fleury and then wrist shot through the pads of Marc- Knights. tucking the puck inside the right post. Andre Fleury for his fourth goal of the Cody Glass, Mark Stone, William It was the fourth goal in the last three season. Karlsson and Alex Tuch scored goals games for Drouin. Montreal had cut it to 4-3 with and Cody Eakin added a pair of assists Glass then put Vegas back in front 6:27 remaining in the third period for Vegas. Fleury, making his league- early in the third period with his third on Tomas Tatar’s fourth goal of the high 13th start, had 25 saves. goal of the season, taking a pass from season. The Canadiens pulled goal- Danault, who had a hat trick in a 4-3 Eakin in the right circle and fi ring a tender Keith Kinkaid with 2:08 left overtime victory at Vegas last season, wrist shot through Kinkaid’s pads. and Brendan Gallagher tied it 10 sec- gave Montreal a 1-0 lead at the 2:35 Stone followed 3 1/2 minutes later with onds later when a Joel Armia centering mark of the fi rst period, knocking in his eighth goal of the season, centering pass ricocheted off Gallagher’s skate a rebound of a Shea Weber shot into a a pass into the crease for Paul Stastny and then off the skate of defenseman wide-open right side of the net for his that caromed into the goal off the skate Nate Thompson (left) and Max Domi of the Montreal Canadiens celebrate after the latter scored a goal in overtime to beat the Brayden McNabb past Fleury. fi fth goal of the season. of defenseman Ben Chiarot. Vegas Golden Knights in Las Vegas, United States, on Thursday. (AFP) Gulf Times 6 Saturday, November 2, 2019 NFL

NFL SPOTLIGHT Jackson looks Garoppolo fi res 4 TD passes as 49ers forward to beat Cards to go 8-0 Reuters Arizona quarterback Kyler down pass to Kittle tied it with New York, United States Murray passed for 241 yards and four seconds left in the fi rst two touchdowns, and newly quarter, and his 7-yard scoring acquired running back Kenyan pass to Bourne on the next pos- immy Garoppolo passed Drake rushed for a season-high session made it 14-7 at 8:58 of the for a season-high 317 110 yards and a touchdown on 15 second quarter. yards and a career-high carries. Drake also had 52 yards The 49ers took a 21-7 halftime Brady, Patriots four touchdowns, and the receiving for the Cardinals (3-5- lead after an unusual sequence in SanJ Francisco 49ers remained 1), who had won the last eight in the fi nal seconds of the half. Jeff one of two NFL unbeaten with the series. Wilson was stopped on a run- Jackson was only 5 when Brady won the first of his 6 Super Bowls a 28-25 victory over the Arizona Murray completed an 88-yard ning play on fourth down from Cardinals on Thursday night in touchdown pass to rookie Andy the 1-yard line with four sec- Glendale, Arizona. Isabella and hit Drake on the onds left, but Arizona coach Kliff Emmanuel Sanders had seven two-point conversion to make it Kingsbury had called a timeout catches for 112 yards and his sec- 28-25 with 4:53 remaining, but just before the play. Sanders ond touchdown reception in as San Francisco converted three caught a 1-yard touchdown pass many games since joining the third-down plays after taking the on the redo. 49ers. kickoff and ran out the clock. Arizona had 71 yards on its George Kittle, Dante Pettis and Matt Breida rushed for 78 fi rst drive and 10 on its next three Kendrick Bourne also had touch- yards for the Niners, who had possessions in the fi rst half. The down catches from Garoppolo, given up only two touchdowns in Niners’ touchdowns came on who completed 28 of 37 passes their previous four games. 59-, 76- and 80-yard drives. without an interception. Drake ran for 36 yards on the Murray threw a 9-yard scor- Kittle had 79 receiving yards fi rst play from scrimmage and ing pass to KeeSean Johnson be- while playing through a left knee completed a six-play drive with fore Garoppolo countered with a contusion sustained on the fi rst a 4-yard run for a quick 7-0 lead. 21-yard touchdown pass to Dante play of the game as the Niners (8- Drake was acquired from Miami Pettis for a 28-14 lead with 5:55 left 0) extended their best start since in a trade Monday and fi rst prac- in the third quarter. Zane Gonzal- 1990, when they won their fi rst tised Tuesday. ez’s 36-yard fi eld goal made it 28- 10 and fi nished 14-2. Garoppolo’s 30-yard touch- 17 with 9:24 remaining.

In this October 6, 2019, picture, Baltimore Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson (left) stiff arms Pittsburgh Steelers outside linebacker T.J. Wat during the match in Pittsburgh, United States. (TNS)

AFP fi ve touchdowns, no intercep- because I’m not playing against may make his return from injury Los Angeles, United States tions and a perfect 158.3 QB rat- him; the defense is. But to win for the Kansas City Chiefs when ing in a rout of Miami. He is the versus him would be pretty they host the Minnesota Vikings youngest ever quarterback to cool.” at Arrowhead Stadium. amar Jackson faces the achieve a perfect QB rating. Mahomes is battling to re- toughest test of his fi rst “Not bad for a running back,” ‘UNIQUE SKILLSET’ cover from a knee injury that full NFL season tomor- Jackson quipped after a display Patriots head coach Bill Beli- scuppered his hopes of a head- row as the in-form Bal- which has been matched by only chick meanwhile admitted that to-head with Aaron Rodgers Ltimore Ravens take on Tom six other quarterbacks in his- Jackson’s array of attacking and the Green Bay Packers last Brady and the unbeaten New tory. Five on that list have won a weapons had been hard to plan Sunday. England Patriots in a collision of Super Bowl. for. Chiefs coach Andy Reid, the quarterback generations. Yet while Jackson’s imperious “He’s a very talented play- however, has remained coy Jackson, 22, was only fi ve performances have placed him er with a great skillset that’s about whether Mahomes will years old when Brady won in elite company, the Ravens unique,” Belichick said ahead feature on Sunday against the the fi rst of his six Super Bowl quarterback is adamant that of Sunday’s showdown in Bal- 6-2 Vikings, or whether he will crowns in February 2002, a his opposite number on Sunday timore. “So, that will be a big continue with back-up Matt statistic that underscores the towers over them all. challenge for us to try to do that, Moore, who impressed in the San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jimmy Garoppolo throws during the first quarter of the NFL game against 20-year age diff erence between “Tom Brady is defi nitely the no question. 31-24 loss to the Packers. the Arizona Cardinals in Glendale, Arizona, United States, on Thursday. (USA TODAY Sports) this weekend’s opposing quar- one at the top,” Jackson said. “He’s very fast and a hard guy “We’ll see how it goes,” Reid terbacks. “Defi nitely. He has six Su- to handle. He’s fast and that’s said. “I’m taking it day by day Jackson, however, has dis- per Bowls. He’s defi nitely the really a big problem. A lot of here. Going to watch them do played a sureness of touch this G.O.A.T (Greatest of All Time). times he just outruns people.” their thing and see how they do.” Williams says Redskins misdiagnosed cancer season that has belied his tender Defi nitely.” Patriots defensive back Devin In New York meanwhile, the years, guiding the Ravens to an Jackson, a keen student of the McCourty said he had “never Dallas Cowboys will look to take Reuters years, leading to his dispute geries to remove the tumour, impressive 5-2 start which has game, pinpointed Brady’s com- seen” a player like Jackson be- control of the NFC East when New York, United States with the team. he said. His unhappiness over them fi rmly in control of the posure as his hallmark. fore. they visit the Giants at East Ru- Williams said he thought he how the Redskins diagnosed AFC North division. “He’s just so cool. In the “It’s his ability to (run and therford on Monday. was getting a cyst cut out the growth was a major factor A dual threat who off ers rush- pocket, he drops back, he looks pass) at such a high level that The Cowboys halted a three- ashington Redskins during the offseason ap- in his eight-game holdout that ing and passing options, Jackson so smooth,” Jackson said. makes it tough,” McCourty said. game losing streak with a con- left tackle Trent pointment only to learn he ended Tuesday. torpedoed the theory he was “It doesn’t even look like he’s “You’re trying to prepare for vincing 37-10 defeat of the WWilliams ended his had dermatofibrosarcoma The team asked for the NFL’s primarily a running back with dropping. It looks like he’s really something that you can’t repli- Philadelphia Eagles in their last silence on Thursday and said protuberans, a skin cancer Management Council to put a dazzling performance in his just standing there waiting for cate in practice.” outing on October 20, and a win he had a soft-tissue cancer that develops inside connec- together a joint committee season-opener. something to happen, just pick- Elsewhere tomorrow, another over the Giants will see them attached to his skull that went tive tissue cells. to examine Williams’ medical Jackson completed 17-of-20 ing the defense apart. of the next generation of quar- improve to 5-3 at the top of the misdiagnosed for close to six Williams later had multiple sur- records and medical care. passes for 324 yards, including “I’m not going against Brady, terbacks, Patrick Mahomes, division.

BOTTOMLINE At 7-1, Packers’ LaFleur is only new coach with a winning record By Sam Farmer seven of his fi rst eight games – Tech). Adam Gase of the New According to the Associated lopsided loss to New Orleans, Los Angeles Times (TCA/DPA) and the fi rst in the league to do York Jets was a receiver in high Press, it has been 50 years since and the Cardinals followed up so since Jim Harbaugh with San school. there was a Week 8 game featur- Thursday with a loss to San Francisco in 2011. The other two new coaches, ing two teams with a worse Francisco. his tongue-in-cheek “Everyone is naturally excited Denver’s Vic Fangio and Miami’s combined record. During their winning streak, observation made the about the opportunity,” said Brian Flores, have defensive Kitchens’ Browns (2-5) have the Cardinals showed they have rounds during the Packers quarterback Aaron backgrounds. one more win than the Jets, and the capability to rebuild with an football off season: If you Rodgers, whose team plays at the The Bengals are one of two the mood in Cleveland isn’t innovative off ence run through Thave ever shaken the hand of the Los Angeles Chargers tomor- winless teams, the other being much brighter. This season rookie quarterback and number Los Angeles Rams’ Sean McVay, row. “Us old heads realise how the 0-7 Dolphins of Flores. has been a disaster so far for a one pick Kyler Murray. you’re undeniably qualifi ed to be this doesn’t come around all the Before the season, Miami fans franchise that came in with such “I’ve always just had that an NFL head coach. time. We’re fortunate enough were concerned their team was high hopes and star players on expectation, if we execute and In a copycat league, McVay is to be 7-1. Guys like myself who tanking for better draft picks, both sides of the ball. “I think I can call good plays, that we’re the cat to copy. have been around a long time and none of the moves the Dol- 2-5, I don’t know what – every- going to be successful,” Kings- With that in mind, it’s worth realise how special this oppor- phins have made would suggest thing’s in front of us,” Kitchens bury told reporters during that taking a look at a couple of Rams tunity is.” otherwise. said after Sunday’s 27-13 loss stretch. “When I got here, peo- assistant coaches now running The relationship LaFleur and Flores remains optimistic, to New England. “I don’t know ple acted like I had never called teams of their own. Halfway Rodgers have forged – by all telling reporters this week: “In what else to say about that. Eve- plays before, never coached through their rookie seasons, appearances far more harmoni- this situation right now, the goal rything’s in front of us. So win football before. I have a feel for those coaches reside at opposite ous than the constant tension for me is to help this team im- the games that we’re supposed the game and what I think we ends of the success spectrum. between Rodgers and former prove on a week-to-week basis. to win and we’ll be fi ne.” can do.” Zac Taylor, Rams quarter- coach Mike McCarthy – is pay- I think that is happening, and The good news for the Browns Arians, who came out of backs coach last season, is at the ing dividends. So is the reliance we’ll just keep going out there is they’re playing the similarly retirement to sign a four-year helm of the 0-8 Cincinnati Ben- on running back Aaron Jones, practising. I think this team is struggling Broncos, who are 2-6, coaching deal with Tampa Bay, gals. The club sat on its hands who is playing like a smaller getting closer to getting to the coming off back-to-back losses is 2-5 for the fi rst time as a head as the trade deadline expired version of Todd Gurley during point to where we can pull out a to Kansas City and Indianapolis, coach. His previous worst record this week and benched longtime his most productive Rams days. ballgame.” and now have lost quarterback through seven games came in starting quarterback Andy Dal- LaFleur (Saginaw Valley State) That could happen tomorrow Joe Flacco to a herniated disk in 2013, his fi rst season in Arizona, ton. The situation is grim. and Taylor (Nebraska) were col- when the Dolphins play host to his neck. when the Cardinals started 3-4. Meanwhile, the 7-1 Green Bay lege quarterbacks, as were three the 1-6 Jets – led by Gase, the Kingsbury’s Cardinals (3-5-1) But he can draw hope from Packers are enjoying a resur- other new head coaches this coach Flores replaced in Miami. opened the season with a tie at that situation. gence under Matt LaFleur, who season: Tampa Bay’s Bruce Ar- The Jets have a minus-107 Detroit, then lost three in a row Those Cardinals won seven was Rams off ensive coordina- ians (Virginia Tech), Cleveland’s points diff erential, worse than before bouncing back with three of their last nine games to fi n- tor two years ago. He’s the fi rst Freddie Kitchens (Alabama) and every team except the Dolphins, consecutive victories. That win- ish 10-6, barely missing the coach in franchise history to win Arizona’s Kliff Kingsbury (Texas who are a staggering minus-161. ning streak ended with Sunday’s playoff s. Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur. (USA TODAY Sports) Gulf Times Saturday, November 2, 2019 7 SPORT

WTA FINALS PARIS MASTERS Djokovic crushes Tsitsipas to set up Pliskova fi ghts off Dimitrov semi-fi nal

AFP start, as back-to-back double Paris faults gifted his illustrious op- ponent a break in just the second game. Djokovic had been strug- ovak Djokovic produced gling with illness earlier in the tenacious Halep a magnifi cent perform- week and laboured past Corentin ance to thrash seventh Moutet and Kyle Edmund in his seed Stefanos Tsitsipas fi rst two matches, but was at his Pliskova believes she would be the underdog against Barty in the semi-finals N6-1, 6-2 yesterday and set up a irrepressible best en route to a Paris Masters semi-fi nal against 5-0 lead. AFP Grigor Dimitrov. The 32-year- Tsitsipas, encouraged by a Shenzhen, China old, battling Rafael Nadal for packed crowd, avoided a fi rst-set the year-end world number one bagel by saving three set points, spot, dispatched Greek star Tsit- only for Djokovic to serve it out arolina Pliskova overcame a sipas in only 58 minutes. The 16- in the following game after a mid-match stutter to book a time Grand Slam champion went mere 28 minutes on court. The semi-fi nal showdown with into the match with a 2-1 losing 21-year-old’s misery was com- world number one Ashleigh record against Tsitsipas, but put pounded by a time violation in KBarty after a three-set victory over Si- the youngster in his place with a the third game of the second set, mona Halep at the WTA Finals yesterday. commanding victory. and Serbian Djokovic duly broke The world number two lost six straight “It was a really good match his serve. games in the second and third sets but for me today,” said Djokovic. “All Another break to love helped eventually prevailed 6-0, 2-6, 6-4 in one week and all year here, it’s great the top seed forge 5-1 in front, hour and 43 minutes to secure the Purple to play in Paris.” and Tsitsipas’ humiliation was Group’s second spot. Djokovic will be usurped by complete when he carved a fore- Defending champion Elina Svitolina Nadal at the top of the rankings hand wide on match point. will play Belinda Bencic in the other next week, but can ensure the Former world number three semi-fi nal after she capped off an un- fi ght to be the best player at the Dimitrov last reached the semis beaten round robin campaign with a 7-5, end of the year reaches the ATP at a Masters tournament in Mon- 7-6 (12/10) victory over late replacement Tour Finals in London by win- te Carlo in 2018, but has redis- Sofi a Kenin. Pliskova believed she would ning a record-extending fi fth ti- covered his form in recent weeks be the underdog against Barty. “She’s tle at Bercy. after heading into the US Open having a great year, so it’s going to be su- The crushing defeat ended ranked 78th. The Bulgarian be- per tough,” she said. “It’s going to be a big Tsitsipas’ run of three con- came the lowest-ranked player challenge but I have nothing to lose.” secutive semi-fi nals and dealt to reach a Grand Slam semi-fi nal An aggressive Pliskova started red hot a blow to his confi dence ahead since 2008 at Flushing Meadows, against Halep winning 13 of the fi rst 16 of his maiden appearance at the before losing to Daniil Medvedev. points en route to blitzing through the season-ending championships, Dimitrov has now won three fi rst set in just 20 minutes. Halep ap- which start on November 10. consecutive matches in straight peared rejuvenated after receiving a pep Djokovic holds an 8-1 winning sets at Bercy, where he had lost talk from coach Darren Cahill between head-to-head record against in the third round in each of the sets as the match fl ipped. Dimitrov, who saw off unseeded previous six years. World number The Wimbledon champion fi nally Chilean Cristian Garin 6-2, 7-5 42 Garin, playing in his fi rst hit the scoreboard by breaking to open earlier in the day. “It will obvi- Masters quarter-fi nal, served the second set and she rediscovered her ously be a diffi cult match,” said for the second set at 5-4, but the touch, hitting menacing slices to rattle Djokovic, who is bidding to tie 28-year-old Dimitrov reeled off Pliskova. Halep broke Pliskova’s sud- Pete Sampras’ record of fi nish- three straight games to claim an denly tentative serve three times to force ing as the year-end number one impressive victory. a decider and her momentum continued on six occasions. “I have lots of Later last night, second seed in the third set to jump out to a 2-0 lead. respect for him. He has lots of Nadal was taking on Jo-Wilfried The twists continued with Pliskova talent and is very quick. But I Tsonga while Gael Monfi ls, who regaining control but she was unable to have lots of confi dence after this is still in contention for a place serve it out in the ninth game. Halep’s late match today.” at the ATP Finals, faces Canada’s rally was short-lived as Pliskova booked Tsitsipas made a nightmare Denis Shapovalov. her third straight semi-fi nals appear- ance at the WTA Finals. The Romanian Karolina Pliskova of Czech Republic celebrates after her win over Simona Halep of Romania in the WTA Finals in Shenzhen. (AFP) lamented her inconsistent performance. “I didn’t play my best tennis,” Halep said. Kiki Bertens stepped in for world number takes the ball quite early and I have to be in the 10th game and was shortly after “But she was good. It’s a tough loss.” three Naomi Osaka, who withdrew due to ready for this,” she added. broken by Svitolina, who won her eighth In the earlier match, Svitolina was a shoulder injury. Kenin was impressive from the start, straight WTA Finals match in a thrilling pushed in the dead-rubber by world Svitolina was relieved the match didn’t moving Svitolina around the court with tiebreak. The 25-year-old is hoping to No.12 Kenin, who replaced Bianca An- go the distance ahead of today’s semi- precise shots but was unable to serve out end a barren season on a high having not dreescu after the US Open champion fi nal against Bencic. “For me the main the fi rst set in the 10th game. Svitolina captured a title since last year’s triumph suff ered a knee injury against Pliskova thing is to recover fi rst, to be fresh physi- made her pay and broke again in the 12th in Singapore. Kenin, an American rising on Wednesday. Kenin was the second re- cally and mentally,” she said. “We know game to draw fi rst blood. star, enjoyed her fi rst taste of the lucra- placement used at the tournament after the game style that she (Bencic) has. She Kenin rued a double fault on set point tive season-ender.

TENNIS AUSTRALIA PUTS BRAVE FACE ON FEDERER ATP CUP NO-SHOW Sydney: Tennis Australia put a brave face of 750 singles and 250 doubles ATP ing start to the Australian season,” said to have seen him compete in the ATP yesterday on Roger Federer’s withdrawal rankings points at stake. Federer’s no- one Twitter user. “Don’t want to say I told Cup, we totally respect his decision and from the inaugural ATP Cup, but some show leaves a big void, although world you so... but.” look forward to seeing him at the Aus- fans demanded refunds after paying top number one Novak Djokovic and Rafael Tennis Australia chief Craig Tiley tralian Open.” dollar to see him. The Swiss great, 38, Nadal are still scheduled to take part — in backed Federer, saying he understood Federer, who confirmed he will play at announced on Thursday he was pulling Brisbane and Perth respectively. Some his rationale. “Roger is indisputably a the Australian Open immediately after out of the new men’s team competition, disgruntled fans demanded refunds on legend of our sport and we have been the ATP Cup, said he had decided an to be held in Australia in January, citing Twitter. Others called for a return of the blessed that he has managed to stay at extra two weeks at home with his family “family reasons”. Perth-based mixed-teams Hopman Cup, the top of the game for so long,” he said. would be more beneficial. “It pains me He was scheduled to play in Sydney which routinely got rave reviews from “We understand this has been a really to not be a part of the most exciting new for Switzerland in the innovative 24-team players, including frequent visitor Fed- diff icult decision for him. He has always event on the calendar, but this is the tournament. Matches will also take place erer, but was axed to make way for the done an extraordinary job being a great right thing to do if I want to continue to in Perth and Brisbane with Aus$22mn ATP Cup. “Terrible decision to remove dad while managing his career. Although play for a longer period of time on the ($15mn) in prize money and a maximum Hopman cup, the players loved the relax- we know the fans in Sydney would love ATP Tour,” he said. Serbia’s Novak Djokovic whips a backhand during his win over Greece’s Stefanos Tsitsipas at the Paris Masters. (Reuters)

GOLF Fitzpatrick leads McIlroy by one at halfway in Shanghai Reuters fantastic, as good as I’ve putted all year.” stroke ahead of the US’s Nelly Korda. 2019 Korn Ferry Tour Player of the Year, Shanghai Fitzpatrick and McIlroy agreed that Hur scored fi ve of her seven birdies on teed off on the 10th hole at Port Royal accuracy off the tee would be paramount the fi rst six holes to match her opening- Golf Club in Southampton and played over the fi nal two rounds. “It’s a big key round six-under-par 66 at the Miramar his fi rst nine holes in six-under. atthew Fitzpatrick earned to hit fairway around here and if you Golf County Club in New Taipei City. That included an eagle at the par-fi ve a one-stroke halfway lead keep doing it you’ll give yourself some “It was amazing... I thought I’m gon- 17th. Four more birdies after the turn, over Rory McIlroy at the good (birdie) chances,” said Fitzpatrick, na shoot way lower than this. I am happy including back-to-back birdies at six WGC-HSBC Champions in 25, who has won fi ve times on the Euro- with my rounds today,” said Hur. Hur and seven, Scheffl er had a shot at a 59, MShanghai yesterday while home hope pean Tour. McIlroy had an eventful fi n- won her fi rst title of the year at the La- but he parred the eighth before surren- and overnight leader Li Haotong slipped ish. At the short par-four 16th he pulled dies Scottish Open in August to snap a dering a stroke at nine. three shots off the pace. his drive into a bush and had an unplay- fi ve-year LPGA win drought, before also “You think about it a little bit,” Schef- Fitzpatrick, the world No. 27, showed able lie. With nowhere to safely drop, he winning the LPGA Volunteers of Amer- fl er said of a chance to break 60. “The a magic touch with the putter, cap- decided to return to the tee for his third ica Classic in Texas earlier this month. eagle putt on seven was pretty close and ping his day with a 15-foot birdie at the shot, and in the end was relieved to es- America’s defending champion Nelly then on eight, felt like I hit a pretty good last for a fi ve-under-par 67 in the sec- cape with a bogey. Korda, who tied with Hur on the fi rst putt, just misread it... kind of lost a little ond round at Sheshan International. “After the way I started, four under day, fi nished second with a bogey-free momentum.” The Englishman leads the way with through six (holes), I was thinking may- 67 to get to 11-under-par. Korda claimed Scheffl er, 23, won twice on the devel- an 11-under 133 total at the only World be shoot a better score than (the 67 yes- her maiden LPGA Tour victory at this opmental Korn Ferry Tour in 2019 and Golf Championships event held outside terday) but you miss a couple of fairways event last year to join her elder sister tied for seventh in his fi rst PGA Tour North America. and a couple of greens and this course all Jessica as a winner on the circuit, ex- start of the season. He had a one-shot In hot pursuit, McIlroy reeled off four of a sudden gets pretty tricky,” said the tending a family sporting resume which lead over compatriot Wes Roach, who straight early birdies before his putter world number two. “It’s easy from the also boasts a Grand Slam tennis title via had eight birdies and an eagle at the cooled off , though he had no trouble fairways but I veered off them a bit in the father Petr. “My shots around the green par-fi ve seventh along with two bogeys brushing in a three-foot eagle putt at middle of the round but was able to get were good and it’s defi nitely tough out in a 63. the par-fi ve 18th after a magnifi cent back on track and it was obviously nice here today. Still a lot of golf to be played Scotland Russell Knox was tied for approach shot. The Northern Irish- to fi nish the way I did, especially after but defi nitely excited,” she said. South third on 64 with Rob Oppenheim and man matched Fitzpatrick’s 67, while the mess I nearly made at 16.” Korean Kim In-Kyung climbed to third Bo Hoag, with Australian veteran John American defending champion Xander Schauff ele was happy to be only two place with her second-round 65 to tie Senden a further stroke back on 65. Op- Schauff ele (69), Australian Adam Scott behind considering he has been under with Australia’s Minjee Lee, runner-up penheim birdied seven of the fi rst eight (69) and South Korean Im Sung-jae (69) the weather this week. “Energy is kind to Korda last year. holes, but parred all of his remaining were two behind the leader. of weird right now,” he said. holes in a seven-under eff ort. Li, after an opening 64 on Thursday, SCHEFFLER FIRES 62 FOR Like Oppenheim, Knox was among managed only two birdies in a 72 that SOUTH KOREA’S HUR MAINTAINS US PGA TOUR BERMUDA LEAD the four players to post a round without left him equal sixth. Fitzpatrick was de- LEAD IN TAIWAN LPGA Scottie Scheffl er bogeyed his nal fi a bogey, jump starting his day with four lighted with his putting though said his South Korea’s Hur Mi-Jung main- hole but still emerged with a one-stroke straight birdies from the second through driving was wayward at times. “Back tained her lead at the half-way mark of lead on nine-under par 62 on Thursday the fi fth holes. This year marks the in- Matthew Fitzpatrick of England plays a shot during the second round nine I struggled with driver a little bit,” the LPGA Taiwan Championship yes- after the fi rst round of the US PGA Tour augural edition of the US tour’s fi rst of the WGC-HSBC Champions in Shanghai yesterday. (AFP) he said. “Hit a few pulls but I putted terday, fi nishing on 12 under-par, one Bermuda Championship. Scheffl er, the tournament in Bermuda.

Saturday, November 2, 2019 GULF TIMES CRICKET

REPORT DOMINANCE Warner leads England claim Australia to clean-sweep fi rst blood in New over Sri Lanka AFP But he still produced the Melbourne, Australia goods, bringing up his 50 off 44 balls to end the match unbeaten on 57, aided by Ashton Turner ustralia cruised past Sri who chipped in with 22 as Aus- Zealand T20 series Lanka to clean-sweep tralia reached 145 for three with their three-match 14 balls to spare. Vince scores 59 for England as tourists chase down New Zealand’s 154-run target Twenty20 series yes- Australia have set a target of terday,A with an in-form David being the number one T20 side AFP Warner grinding out a third by the time the World Cup is Christchurch, New Zealand successive half-century in the played on home soil in a year’s seven wicket win. time, and their whitewash of Sri The home team have been Lanka is set to propel them above maiden half century dominant throughout, winning South Africa and into third place. from James Vince by 134 runs in Adelaide and by An even bigger test starts to- powered England to nine wickets with seven overs to morrow, when they face top- a convincing seven- spare in Brisbane ahead of the ranked Pakistan in the fi rst of wicketA victory over New Zea- clash in Melbourne. three T20s. land in the opening Twenty20 Sri Lanka’s batting had been “We haven’t been up to our international in Christchurch insipid until now, but they fi nally standards. We haven’t per- yesterday. posted a competitive score of 142 formed at our best and if we Vince top-scored for the tour- for six, with Kusal Perera hitting don’t, we will end up like this,” ists with 59 as England chased 57. said Sri Lanka opener Niroshan down New Zealand’s 154-run However their bowlers, led Dickwella. “We learnt a lot in target in 18.3 overs to take a 1-0 by Lasith Malinga, have been no this series, but we couldn’t even lead in the fi ve-match series. match for a quality Australian compete properly.” While Vince’s man-of-the- batting line-up, spearheaded by Finch won the toss and put Sri match performance caught the Warner who has now scored 217 Lanka into bat and it didn’t start eye, captain Eoin Morgan was in three innings without losing well for the visitors. also full of praise for his bowlers, his wicket. Dickwella, elevated to opener who laid the platform for victory “It was pretty clinical once we after Danushka Gunathilaka was by restricting the Black Caps to got into a routine,” said Australia dropped, was out fi rst ball. 153 for fi ve. captain Aaron Finch. Kusal Mendis and Perera “The game was won and lost “The way the bowlers set it up showed some aggression, slapping in the fi rst innings... James for us over the last two games, it a handful of boundaries, before Vince played outstanding well was outstanding. Kane Richardson tempted Mendis but all credit to the bowlers to- “Every game is a diff erent into another big shot and he was day,” he said. challenge and a diff erent surface, caught at deep square for 13. A three-wicket haul from so it’s important to bring in your Perera and Avishka Fernando spinner Mitchell Santner was best, in terms of preparation and pushed the score to 65 for two at not enough to rescue the Black mental side of the game too.” the halfway mark, building a 43- Caps, whose batting line-up Openers Finch and Warner run partnership, the team’s high- failed to fi re after Morgan won were both dropped early in the est of the series, before Fernando the toss and sent them in. run chase at the Melbourne was caught near the boundary off England’s win came despite Cricket Ground, and they made Pat Cummins for 20. the absence of several senior the visitors pay, putting on 69 for Oshada Fernando followed players, who have been rested the fi rst wicket. soon after for six, but the aggres- for the series after a gruelling Finch hit three big sixes before sive Perera kept plugging away, period that saw them win the falling for 37, caught by Shehan bringing up his sixth T20 half- World Cup and fail to reclaim Jayasuriya off Lahiru Kumara. century off 38 balls. the Ashes. That brought Steve Smith to He fell for 57, top-edging a A trio of debutants in the England’s James Vince plays a shot during the first Twenty20 match against New Zealand in Christchurch, New Zealand, yesterday. (AFP) the crease, but he only lasted nine Cummins ball to Ashton Turner team facing New Zealand fi tted balls, caught in the deep for 13. at mid-off . in seamlessly, with Sam Curran Warner, who scored an un- and Pat Brown both snaring a New Zealand captain Williamson’s bowling action given all-clear: ICC beaten 100 and 60 not out in the BRIEF SCORES: Sri Lanka 142 wicket each. opening two games, was heard on for 6 (Perera 57) lose to Australia All-rounder Lewis Gregory Reuters an assessment that took place credited bio-mechanics centre had come under scrutiny. He the pitch microphone saying he 145 for 3 (Warner 57 not out) by was not needed with either bat Bengaluru, India last month, the International in Loughborough on Oct. 11, had previously been suspended was struggling with his rhythm. seven wickets or ball and will hope to make Cricket Council said yesterday. it was found that the elbow from bowling in international an impression when hostilities Williamson, who bowls off - extension for all his deliveries cricket in July 2014. resume in Wellington tomorrow. ew Zealand captain spin, had been reported for a was within the permissible Williamson is currently recover- Morgan said his squad was Kane Williamson can suspect bowling action during 15-degree level of tolerance ing from a hip injury that had building its depth by blood- Nresume bowling in New Zealand’s first test against under the ICC regulations. forced him to pull out of the ing youngsters ahead of the T20 international cricket after his Sri Lanka in Galle in August. This was the second time that ongoing five-match Twenty20 World Cup in Australia next year. action was found to be legal in Following a test in an ICC-ac- Williamson’s bowling action series at home against England. “It’s a chance for them to stake their claim,” said the England captain, who emphatically ended provement in bowling, batting an inside edge that crashed into ner Ish Sodhi had some success their focus for the series is on the match with a six off the final and fi elding. middle stump. pegging back England’s run rate preparing for next year’s T20 ball to fi nish on 34 not out. “We were probably a little bit Fellow opener Colin Munro before Vince and Morgan com- World Cup. off in all three areas,” he said. tried to break the shackles but bined for a 54-run partnership England are ranked second in ‘A BIT OFF’ “We got a score on the board was too aggressive against Chris that proved decisive. the world in T20s behind Pa- New Zealand’s regular captain that we felt we could defend but Jordan and was caught on the It is the fi rst time the sides have kistan, while New Zealand are Kane Williamson is out of the we were a little bit off with the boundary for 21. met since the one-day World Cup sixth. series with a hip injury and the ball and in the fi eld, which didn’t In reply, Jonny Bairstow made fi nal in July, which ended with Black Caps sorely missed his help.” a positive start for England and scores tied but England claiming BRIEF SCORES: New Zealand batting prowess. The poor form that dogged it took a spectacular catch from victory because they had scored 153 for 5 (Taylor 44) lose to Eng- Stand-in skipper Tim South- Martin Guptill at the World Cup Guptill for dismiss him for 35. more boundaries. land 154 for 3 (Vince 59; Santner ee said there was room for im- continued when Curran coaxed Santner and fellow spin- However, both teams insist 3-23) by seven wickets

BANGLADESH’S TOUR OF INDIA Itchy eyes, sore throat but Bangladesh OK with Delhi air Reuters scratchy eyes, maybe a little sore has been scheduled and we’re Waugh praises Maxwell courage to New Delhi, India throats now and then, but it’s here to play.” been okay. Nobody is being sick More than air quality, the take mental health break or dying or anything like that.” tourists are struggling to cope Reuters and things happening in elhi’s air pollution has Delhi’s notorious smog with the absence of talismanic Melbourne, Australia life just like normal people. left several Bangla- caused Sri Lankan bowler all-rounder Shakib Al Hasan, Sometimes it becomes a bit desh players with sore Suranga Lakmal to vomit on the who was banned earlier this too much.” throats and itchy eyes fi eld during a 2017 Test at Kotla week for an anti-corruption ormer captain Steve Waugh, who led a series of butD coach Russell Domingo dis- and prompted questions about breach. Waugh, an alumni of uncompromising teams in the missed any health concerns and scheduling matches in northern “Anybody will miss Shakib... Fthe “tough school” of late 1990s and early 2000s, said they were focused on giving India during winter. but he made a mistake and is Australian cricket, has praised is renowned for unabashedly a good account of themselves Domingo referred to Bang- paying the price for it,” Domingo all-rounder Glenn Maxwell for championing “mental disinte- in tomorrow’s Twenty20 match ladesh’s own struggle with air said. having the courage to seek gration”, Australia’s tactic of against India. pollution and said the team were Shakib’s absence has left the treatment for a mental health putting opposition players off The city government in- not taking any special precau- coach with a selection dilemma, issue. their games through targeted structed schools in Delhi yes- tion. though he expected youngsters Maxwell was ruled out of the sledging. terday to remain shut until No- “We know Sri Lanka strug- to step up. Australian team indefinitely He freely admitted that speak- vember 5 as residents breathed gled a bit last time. There’s bit of “It’s very tricky because on Thursday after confiding ing about a mental health the season’s worst air for a third pollution in Bangladesh as well. Shakib bats at number three in coach Justin Langer about issue was taboo during his straight day. So it’s not a massive shock to the and often opens the bowling or his health issues ahead of a playing days. Several Bangladesh play- system,” Domingo said. bowls fi rst change,” Domingo T20 match against Sri Lanka in “It was a tough school back then, ers and support staff wore India’s batting coach Vikram said. Adelaide. and I look at a lot of players I face masks during yesterday’s Rathour was rather dismissive “So you got to decide ‘wheth- “I think it’s a courageous played with and I think back training at the Feroz Shah Ko- about it. er I want to replace the batsman decision and one that should now, and maybe they had men- tla Stadium and Domingo said “You’re asking the wrong or I replace the bowler’ because be applauded,” Waugh told re- tal issues,” said the 54-year-old. it was not ideal but the tourists Bangladesh’s Soumya Sarkar (foreground) wearing a face mask person I think,” said the former it’s very diffi cult to replace both. porters yesterday of Maxwell’s “But at the time, it was almost would not make an issue out of catches a ball during a practice session in New Delhi yesterday. (AFP) player from Punjab. Not many players provide you break from the team. a sign of weakness to put your it. “I’ve played all my life in both skills.” “It’s a high-pressure situation, hand up. I’m glad that that’s “Not obviously perfect with can told reporters. complain about and moan over. north India. We’re used to these “I don’t think there is any- professional sport, and people changed because so many the smog but it’s the same for “It’s not perfect, it’s not ideal, We just got to get on with it... conditions. We are not taking one earmarked to specifi cally do have got outside pressures people suff ered in silence.” both the teams,” the South Afri- but it’s nothing we’re going to “For sure we have some any special measure. The game Shakib’s job.”